Module 1 Flashcards
“Man is the measure of all things”
Humanities and the Arts
Protagoras was a key figure in the development of ancient Greek philosophy, particularly in the field of relativism. His statement implies that individual perceptions and experiences shape our understanding of reality.
Protagoras and Human Perception
Human ingenuity has always been driven by the quest to understand and manipulate our environment.
From Stone Age Tools to Modern Technology
This drive is evident in the evolution of technology and knowledge:
- Stone Age Tools
- Ancient Innovations
- The Renaissance and Beyond
- The Modern Era
The earliest tools, made from stone, represent humanity’s first efforts to alter our surroundings to meet basic needs.
Stone Age Tools
As civilizations developed, so did our technological capabilities. Innovations such as the wheel, writing systems, and early machinery transformed societies.
Ancient Innovations
The Renaissance marked a period of profound intellectual and artistic growth. Discoveries in science, art, and exploration demonstrated an expanding understanding of the natural world and human potential.
The Renaissance and Beyond
Today, technology continues to advance at an unprecedented pace. From the invention of the computer to the rise of the internet and artificial intelligence, our capabilities have evolved dramatically.
The Modern Era
Art, as a reflection of human experience, has also evolved alongside technological advancements.
The Impact on Art and Culture
Human progress is marked by our relentless pursuit of knowledge and improvement. Each technological breakthrough, artistic innovation, and scientific discovery contributes to a legacy that shapes our collective understanding and influences future generations.
The Indelible Mark of Human Legacy
The word art etymologically comes from the Aryan root ar, which means ‘to join’ or’ put together.’ The Latin term sars, artis, mean everything that is artificially made or composed by man.
Nature of the Arts
When art is compared to other human activities, the uncultured will generally regard it as impractical, i.e. it is not meant to meet the requirements of day to day living.
Functions of Arts
This seems to be built – in the human psyche: this need to express, o show, to exhibit what is hidden in man’s inner world. His thoughts, emotions, imaginations, dreams and aspirations are expressed in his art.
The human need for expression
It is not enough for man to express his inner world through his art, he needs to share and convey it to others too.
The social need for display, celebration and communication.
All art is man made. In the effort to make human life better, objects are created (like the wheel) which is also classified as art.
The physical needs for functional objects
